Author: Tom Raftery
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Why Solar Alone Isn’t Enough: What Spain’s Blackout Revealed About the Energy Transition
On April 28, 2025, a blackout in Spain and Portugal highlighted vulnerabilities in solar deployment, emphasizing the need for robust grid infrastructure. While solar energy is booming, efficiency gains must be complemented by support systems like batteries and advanced inverters to ensure stability. Future policies need to prioritize both innovation and resilience in energy systems.
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From Forced Labour to Flood Zones: What You Don’t Know About Your Suppliers Can Hurt You
Sustainability in supply chains has evolved from being a peripheral CSR activity to a critical operational focus, driven by new regulations and stakeholder demands. Companies must ensure supply chain transparency, understanding risks across the entire value chain. Integrated ESG strategies foster resilience and enhance market opportunities, while failing to adapt risks reputational and financial consequences.
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IP Protection vs. Climate Crisis: Why Startups Can’t Afford to Wait
The Climate Confident podcast addresses the abrupt cancellation of the USPTO’s Climate Change Mitigation Pilot Program, crucial for expediting patent approvals for climate tech. This decision hampers innovation, as startups rely on swift IP protection. While the US faces setbacks, other nations maintain supportive IP frameworks, emphasizing the urgency for effective climate solutions through robust…
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Why Real-Time Emissions Tracking Is the Missing Link in Product Carbon Footprinting
The Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) is emerging as a critical standard for manufacturers tackling emissions reduction. Traditional reliance on averages hampers effectiveness, while real-time, machine-level data offers precision. As regulatory demands increase, especially in the EU, smaller manufacturers require accessible, automated tracking systems to ensure compliance and gain competitive advantages.
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Nation-Scale Decarbonisation: Why the UK’s Energy Future Hinges on Storage, Grid Reform, and Community Buy-In
The UK’s ambitious goal of decarbonizing its national grid by 2030 faces significant challenges beyond just renewable energy deployment. Infrastructure, regulatory inertia, and stringent planning systems hinder progress. Effective battery storage, AI integration, and community engagement are crucial for overcoming these obstacles and achieving a cleaner, more reliable energy landscape.
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Industrial Decarbonisation Could Be the Climate Win of the Decade – If We Get Serious!
Industrial decarbonisation is crucial for mitigating climate change, as major sectors account for 30% of global CO₂ emissions. Despite available technology, economic barriers hinder progress. Projects need investment and buyer demand to become viable. Policy measures, like mandates and standards, are essential to stimulate the necessary transformation in industrial practices.
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Burned for Scrap: The Dark Afterlife of Our Electronics—and How to Fix It
E-waste, now the fastest-growing solid waste stream, poses significant environmental and health challenges. In 2022, over 62 million tonnes were generated, with only 17.4% recycled. Despite its complexity, e-waste also supports livelihoods in places like Ghana. Solutions lie in designing more repairable devices and fostering transparency in supply chains.
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The Energy Revolution: How AI, EVs & Batteries Are Changing the Game
The energy sector is evolving towards decentralisation, allowing consumers to generate, store, and trade energy. In a recent podcast, Chris Doherty of Joulen highlighted advancements in smart battery systems and AI initiatives. Government incentives, similar to those for electric vehicles, are essential for encouraging consumer participation and facilitating this energy transition.